The Ultimate Half-Day Guide to Dujiangyan: Time-Saving and Fun

If you're like me and tend to suddenly decide to go on a trip, or if your schedule is packed but you want to check out a few spots, then this Dujiangyan Half-Day Tour Guide is a must-read. When I first visited Dujiangyan, I stumbled around a bit, but later figured out this route that saves time, isn’t tiring, and allows for a great time. I really hope it can help everyone! 💡

My Half-Day Tour Experience in Dujiangyan

One day, I spontaneously decided to drive from downtown Chengdu to Dujiangyan around noon. Initially, I just wanted to take a casual stroll, but by the end of the day, I realized the itinerary was super efficient—not rushed at all, and really relaxing! Here’s how I organized my trip: Dujiangyan Scenic Area -> Guangxian Ancient Town -> Blue Tears, a truly soothing route.

2:30 PM Depart, 3:00 PM Arrive at Dujiangyan Scenic Area

I parked in P1 Parking Lot, which is close to Gate 4! I took a quick taxi to Dujiangyan Gate 4 (it’s pretty cheap, about 7 yuan). Once inside the scenic area, I decided to hire a guide to learn the backstories; it was definitely worth the experience! I bargained the guide fee down to 150 yuan, and I think it was a good deal.

3:30 PM - 5:30 PM Dujiangyan Scenic Area

Dujiangyan didn’t disappoint. It was filled with greenery and stunning views, and it was super easy to explore. I followed a top-to-bottom order for the visit, which was both energy-efficient and effective. Here are my recommended stops:

• Erwang Temple: I remember hearing stories here that really made me appreciate the wisdom of ancient people.
• Anlan Suspension Bridge: This historic suspension bridge felt a bit thrilling to cross!
• Yuzui and Feisha Weir: I checked out the water conservancy facilities, and the guide shared details that made it very scientific.
• Baopingkou and Lidui Park: You could see the whole water conservancy project clearly, key highlights!

Highly Recommend: Get a Guide! It's so much easier than researching on your own, and you’ll feel accomplished throughout.

5:30 PM - 7:15 PM Guangxian Ancient Town & Dinner

When I exited the scenic area, just a short walk led me to Nanjiao Bridge, which is famous for its night views—beautifully lit! After crossing Nanjiao Bridge, I arrived at Guangxian Ancient Town, a well-preserved old town with many unique shops and delicious Chengdu snacks. I randomly picked a place for dinner and had a bowl of hot Chong Shui Jiao (a kind of dumpling) paired with some local side dishes—casual yet satisfying.

7:15 PM - 8:00 PM Night View of Blue Tears at "Tianfu Source"

Honestly, when I first went to Dujiangyan, I didn’t know how popular "Blue Tears" were until someone in the ancient town recommended it. So, I decided to navigate to "Tianfu Source" to check out the Blue Tears. Just a heads up, avoid taking photos at Nanjiao Bridge because the lighting isn’t great; the stunning Blue Tears effect is at Tianfu Source, where the lights usually turn on at around 7:30 PM. So, try to arrive before it's completely dark to capture a more atmospheric shot!

By the time I returned to the parking lot, it was nearly 8 PM, and I surprisingly felt not tired at all after a whole afternoon! I highly recommend this half-day tour route!

Tour Route & Time Suggestions

Half-Day Tour Schedule:

A Few Helpful Tips:

1. Make sure to enter through Gate 4: If I hadn't done my homework ahead of time, I wouldn’t have known the Qinyan Tower was closed, so there was no need to go around to other entrances.

2. Don’t wear yourself out climbing if you want a nice view: If you really want that panoramic view, spend 40 yuan to take the escalator to Yulei Pavilion to save your energy, plus you’ll get a great overlook of the area.

3. A guide adds extra value: If you’re like me and love learning about history, hiring a local guide will enhance your experience and make the money spent worthwhile.

4. Tips for viewing the Blue Tears: Tianfu Source is the best spot for photos; try to get some during the "blue hour" before it’s completely dark for the best shots. But remember, don’t end up at Nanjiao Bridge thinking it’ll be as good—its lighting effects are just average.

This Dujiangyan half-day tour was incredibly time-efficient, and even with my last-minute planning, I had a blast. I hope my experience can serve as a reference for everyone!